TSG Chester Gabriel III
Reflections on this veteran's military serviceSubmitted by Chester Gabriel III
Chester was born and raised in Southern California. He lived in Compton California for the the first 11 years of his life and then moved to Lakewood, CA where his parents currently reside. He went to college at Cerritos Community College where he got his AA degree then transferred to Cal State University Dominguez Hills where he got his Bachelors degree in Business Administration.
After college Chester went into the Air Force because he was not finding any fulfillment in his work in the civilian sector. Chester comes from a military family — his father was in the Air Force during Vietnam, his maternal grandfather was in the Army during WWII as a Tuskegee Airman, and his sister served in the Air Force. His parents Chester & Aprel Gabriel were his heroes. So he was inspired by them to join the Military because of the great experiences they would share with him about the military. Chester is currently a Technical Sergeant in the Air Force where he has served at Peterson Air Force Base as an Electrician and before that he was stationed at Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan. He choose to become an Electrician because it was applicable to all phases of life. He already had his degree so he was looking for a trade to round him out. His job as an electrician goes far beyond simple home improvement projects. Every Air Force base around the world requires electricity to operate successfully. He installs, maintains, and repairs energized and de-energized overhead and underground distribution systems. He works on transformer, sub stations, switches, breakers, fuses, panels, lighting fixtures, receptacles and motors. He also climbs 30 foot poles. Also he maintains annual proficiency in CPR, First Aid, and aerial lift rescue. When he deployed in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Spartan Shield he setup and maintained airfields in austere locations to help pilots complete their mission such as transporting important cargo to his service members in desolate places and to help nations with necessary supplies. I grew up in Lakewood and have family that currently resides in Lakewood. I currently serve at Lackland-Kelly AFB and served this great nation proud. I am thankful for having a great support system in my Selfless Loving Wife, Amazing Mother, Inspiring Father, Caring Auntie, Fearless Brother, two Smart & Strong Sisters, beautiful two daughters and precious niece and nephew. Because of them it makes everything all worth it. God bless us all! (Posted 2023) |